Huguenot surnames

This is a list of some Huguenot names which have been, or are now, represented in Australia. It has been prepared by Robert Nash, Secretary of the Huguenot Society of Australia. It is not a definitive list, merely a 'work in progress'. In all cases there is some historical evidence that the families concerned are of Huguenot descent. All these families originated in France, or the Walloon area of Belgium, but they almost all came here from England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, South Africa, the Channel Islands, the United States, Canada, India, Sri Lanka or Denmark. In a few cases they represent the maiden names of married women.

Just because a name is on the list doesn't mean that everyone who bears that name is of Huguenot descent: not all Woods come from Dubois! Please remember that, strictly speaking, there is no such thing as a 'Huguenot name' - there are only French names. Some famous 'Huguenot names' e.g. Dubourdieu are only represented in Australia by French Catholics.

Some names have two variants separated by a dash e.g. Delaforce/Delforce. Others have an anglicized (or German or Dutch) version followed by the original French in brackets e.g. Mandeno (Mandineau) or De Klerk (Le Clercq).

If you think you know of a Huguenot name represented in Australia which isn't on the list, feel free to e-mail the Secretary on ozhug@optushome.com.au. However, you should be willing to give some details of family tradition, historical proof, etc if possible. We are also happy to express our opinion on the possible Huguenot origins of names for people who are uncertain.